DGAL Disease Reporting: Who Qualifies and What You Get
A guide for veterinarians in France regarding their legal obligations to report specific animal diseases to protect public safety.
This scheme requires veterinarians to report specific animal diseases to national authorities to monitor public health and ensure animal safety.
Who it's for
This obligation applies to all veterinarians who encounter a disease that is classified as a "Maladie à déclaration obligatoire" (MDO), which translates to a disease that must be officially reported. If you are a veterinary professional practicing in France and you identify a disease that falls under this mandatory reporting category, you are required to participate in this monitoring system.
What you get
The primary benefit for the practitioner is legal protection. By strictly following the established national protocols for reporting, you ensure that you are operating within the legal framework required by the Ministry of Agriculture. This process allows you to fulfill your professional role in national zoonosis monitoring—the study of how diseases spread from animals to humans—and contributes directly to national public safety.
What it costs you
There is no monetary fee to participate, but the requirement is mandatory and carries significant administrative responsibilities. It requires your time and immediate attention, as these reports must be time-sensitive. You must be prepared to manage these reporting duties alongside your regular clinical workload to ensure the information reaches the relevant authorities without delay.
The catch to know
The most important thing to remember is that reporting is not optional. Failure to report a disease that is on the mandatory list—for example, Rabies—is considered a criminal offense. You must be certain that you are aware of which diseases fall under the "Maladie à déclaration obligatoire" category to avoid legal consequences.
How to apply
- Identify if the disease encountered is classified as a mandatory reporting disease.
- Review the specific national protocols required for that specific disease.
- Complete the necessary reporting documentation promptly.
- Submit the report through the official government channels.
For more information and to access official resources, visit https://agriculture.gouv.fr